Sweet bread with Turkish delight, fasting version

Cozonac Recipe with Turkish Delight - A Flavorful and Easy-to-Make Delicacy

Cozonac is a traditional dessert, filled with stories and memories, that brings a touch of joy to our tables. This recipe for cozonac with Turkish delight is not only simple but also full of flavors that will delight you every time. Perfect for holidays or for those moments when you want to treat your family to something special, this cozonac is an excellent choice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients:

- 600 g flour
- 200 ml soy milk
- 100 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
- 7 g dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 1 packet of vanilla (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- Grated zest of 1 orange
- 300 g Turkish delight (preferably in cubes)
- Soy milk and honey for brushing on top

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small saucepan, warm the soy milk together with the sugar over low heat until it becomes warm. Add the dry yeast and let it sit for 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. It is important to add the salt to the flour as it helps control the fermentation of the yeast. Create a well in the middle of the flour, where you will pour in the milk and yeast mixture.

3. Adding Flavors: In the well formed, add the orange juice, vanilla, and orange zest. These ingredients not only add flavor but also a note of freshness to your cozonac.

4. Kneading the Dough: Start mixing the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands. When the dough begins to come together, add the oil and continue kneading for about 10 minutes until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. If necessary, add a little soy milk or flour, gradually, to achieve the desired consistency.

5. Rising the Dough: Place the dough in a bowl greased with oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy cozonac.

Shaping the Cozonac:

6. Dividing the Dough: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into a rectangular sheet on a surface dusted with flour.

7. Adding the Filling: Sprinkle Turkish delight cubes evenly over each sheet of dough. If you want to personalize your cozonac, you can also add ground nuts or cocoa for a chocolatey touch.

8. Rolling and Braiding: Carefully roll each sheet of dough into a tight log. Then, braid the two logs to create a beautiful and decorative appearance.

9. Final Rising: Place the braided cozonac in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 15 minutes, covered with a towel.

Baking:

10. Preparing for the Oven: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Before placing the cozonac in the oven, brush it with a mixture of soy milk and a bit of honey to give it a golden and shiny crust.

11. Baking: Bake the cozonac for 40 minutes, or until it turns golden and, if you tap the bottom lightly with your finger, you will hear a hollow sound. This is a simple technique to check if the cozonac is done.

Finishing and Serving:

12. Cooling: After the cozonac is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

13. Serving: You can serve it plain, sliced, or you can add a honey glaze or even some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of sweetness. This cozonac pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal dessert for a relaxing afternoon.

Notes and Suggestions:

- Variations: You can experiment with various fillings, such as nuts, raisins, or chocolate, depending on your preferences. Also, if you want a sugar-free version, you can use natural sweeteners.

- Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long does the cozonac last? It keeps well for 3-4 days in an airtight container, but it is best enjoyed fresh.
- Can I freeze the cozonac? Yes, the cozonac can be frozen, but make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional Benefits:

This cozonac is a source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fibers, having nutritional benefits due to the orange juice and Turkish delight. The soy milk adds a note of plant protein, making it an excellent choice for those following a vegan diet.

Enjoy every bite of this cozonac with Turkish delight, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring warmth to your heart, reminding you of the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!